Indoor Farm Business Strategy

Project Outline As part of the larger vision, Fortify seeks to develop an indoor farm. Thus, based on our proposed location of Mare Island, CA and anticipated crops (baby spinach, baby butters, arugula and tender lettuce like red oaks, tangos and mizuna), we would like to understand 1) what factors will affect economical feasibility and 2) what challenges we may face of customer adoption and how to address them. Keeping in mind location and technology available, we would also like to explore the implementation of a circular economy in our roadmap. Considering indoor farms are electricity intensive, we seek a solution to mitigate this issue in conjunction to operating the vertical farm with a goal of net zero carbon emissions. Deliverables Conduct a market analysis assessing competitors and customers, including the possibility of conducting interviews. Assess the capital and operating expenses needed for the startup of a vertical farm with the aim of achieving an ROI of 20%. This will include an analysis of the current market prices for vertical farm produce, cost of local distribution, consumer perception of product, and a recommendation for what technology to buy for the farm. An investment analysis of alternative technologies/strategies to meet the vertical farm’s energy needs, e.g., taking into consideration carbon credits that may lower energy costs. An assessment and recommendation about the points in the indoor farm that will directly or indirectly affect carbon emissions and systems that will reduce the emissions. This may include analysis of using clean energy sources, the creation of an onsite solar/wind farm, waste reuse, etc.

Startup Strategy Project

Project Scope Fortify is seeking groups of 2-4 students that are self-motivated and enthusiastic to take on a new project. They are not afraid of a constantly changing environment and are not afraid to communicate when in need of clarification, help, etc. Little bets are “breakthrough ideas emerge from small discoveries”. Fortify is looking for a long-term implementation plan for these little bets that will get us to the overall destination. Focus: Create a continuous plan for the development of Fortify with a focus on the expansion on the previous little bets with a focus on how COVID-19 is impacting the food supply chain. Develop a go-to-market strategy for new products or services Complete a full customer, competitor, market, and environmental analysis; complete a marketing strategy review; design a new marketing strategy (product, place, price, and promotion); conduct overhaul of branding or communication strategy. Goal: Obtain a strategic plan variable to environmental changes that makes Fortify competitive in the industry and attractive to consumers to choose a healthier lifestyle Deliverable A progress report via a presentation mid-way through the semester that summarizes findings, research, and ideas An in-depth analysis of suggested business model for the progression of the little bets A compilation of the resources used to arrive at the suggested model What Fortify will provide Fortify will provide a dedicated contact who is available to to answer periodic questions via email and set up video calls for check-ins. Fortify will be available for an initial call with the professor to initiate a relationship and confirm the scope of the project. Fortify will provide any pertinent information or company documentation needed for the project.